Optimum tire pressure for a safer ride

2024 Author: Erin Ralphs | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-02-19 11:42

Maneuverability, fuel consumption and driving safety are determined not only by the skill of the driver, the technical capabilities of the engine and chassis, but also by tire pressure. The ability of the car to "hold" the road, as well as your safety, depends on the tires. Maintaining optimal tire pressure is a guarantee of trouble-free driving on any road and in any weather conditions.

Car manufacturers in the operating instructions indicate the permissible pressure in the tires of the car, at which the vehicle should be used. These indicators are determined by the size of the tires installed on the car, and the motorist must adhere to the specified parameters.

When to check tire pressure?

First of all, the pressure should be checked during sudden temperature changes. In wheels with parameters 185/65/13, the optimal pressure is 2.0 atm at a temperature of 25 degrees Celsius. A decrease in air temperature by 10-20 degrees leads to a pressure drop of up to 1.5-1.7 atm. Low tire pressure increases fuel consumptionfuel by 15-30%, impairs vehicle handling and accelerates tire wear. At the beginning of the seasonal temperature difference, when the thermometer records the temperature from -5 to + 5 during the day, it is already necessary to pay attention to tire pressure and take measures to normalize it.

Secondly, the tire pressure is checked as the load on the car increases. For example, when transporting a large number of passengers or cargo, the mass of which exceeds the capabilities of the car. Recommended 2.0 atm (for tire size 185/65/13) will turn into 2.8–3.0 atm. Such indicators will worsen the adhesion of the tread to the road surface, which will lead to poor vehicle handling, increase fuel consumption and braking distance by 1.5 times, naturally, such pressure in the tires will shorten their service life.

Pressure control with option or pressure gauge

In the European Union, since 2012, cars with tire pressure sensors (manometers) began to go on sale, and this is no longer an optional device, but a functional and mandatory device on all new cars. The mechanism informs the driver about the need to change the pressure up or down. You can independently install such a sensor that informs you about tire pressure indicators. This device is suitable for those who travel long distances.

What is the tire pressure? This is a question every motorist should ask himself before every trip. If you drive small miles per year, use an inexpensive portable pneumatic ordigital gauges. With these devices, you can always check your tire pressure yourself.

In a car, every system requires constant control by the driver. Tire pressure is no small matter, ignoring the condition of the rubber leads to financial costs for fuel and wheel repairs, and can also compromise the safety of driving a car. Therefore, it is so important to systematically check and correct it.